Julia Shumate Ewing

Julia Shumate Ewing, 83, of Burlington passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 14, 2023, following a brief illness.

A longtime resident of Burlington, Julie spent many years in Charlottesville, Virginia, where she spent time with her Edwards and Shumate grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Julie was preceded in death by her husband, John Marshall Ewing, her son, David Marshall Ewing, and her parents Eileen Edwards Shumate and William Welford Shumate. She is survived by many cousins, beloved friends who are family, and the many individuals who benefited from her ever-present advocacy.

As newlyweds, John’s career with Burlington Industries, took them to New Jersey before returning to Burlington where they made their permanent home. In 1961, their son David Marshal Ewing was born. Dave we as the light of her life and the motivation to help him, and other children with intellectual disabilities have all opportunities available. Julie attended Sullins College, a women’s junior college in Bristol, VA. After moving to Burlington, Julie furthered her education at Elon, and then completed her master’s degree at UNC-Greensboro.

Julie enjoyed spending time outdoors and had fond memories of being a camper and then counselor at Camp Strawderman in Bristol, Virginia. She continued those friendships throughout her life. Julie enjoyed sharing her love of the mountains with her son, Dave, as they spent many summers in Blowing Rock, NC making wonderful memories. She was often found with a paint brush in hand, creating paintings she would share with friends and enter in juried events. Her strongest interest was in helping the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Julie served at Executive Director of Ralph Scott Lifeservices, Inc, from 1988-2007. After her retirement, she served as a volunteer by serving on the Ralph Scott Lifeservices, Inc Board of Directors. Prior to Ralph Scott Lifeservices, Inc., She worked at the ARC of North Carolina as a Case Manager, where she commuted from Burlington for several years. While as a resident of Twin Lakes, Julie served on the I/DD Ad Hoc committee, DEI Ad Hoc committee, and was currently serving as a member of the Board of Directors. Julie found it her mission to always advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities and wanted all people with all abilities to belong.

Please join her family and friends as we celebrate the life of Julie Ewing on Wednesday, May 31st at 2:00pm Twin Lakes Community, Boland Building, 3815 Wade Coble Drive, Burlington, NC 27215. Reception will immediately follow.

Flowers may be sent to Twin Lakes, Boland Building for the May 31st celebration, 3701 Wade Coble Drive, Burlington, NC 27215. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ralph Scott Lifeservices, Inc. 408 West Trade Street, Burlington, NC 27217 or to a charity of donor’s choosing.

Julie will be buried at a private family service in Charlottesville, Virginia.

 

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